The Top 20 Things To See & Do In York

Planning a trip to York? Discover the magic of one of England’s most popular tourist destinations with The Top 20 Things to see & do in York, your handy travel companion to one of the UK’s most fascinating cities.

From medieval streets to Viking history, The Top 20 Things to See & Do in York is your easy-to-use guide to the very best of this beautiful walled city. It’s ideal for first-time visitors, weekend breakers, and anyone wanting to make the most of a day trip.

York packs two thousand years of history into one compact, walkable city. Roman soldiers, Vikings, medieval merchants and Victorian railway pioneers have all left their mark, and you can still see it in the streets today. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, this is our pick of the 20 best things to do in York.

Historic landmarks

1. York Minster. The largest medieval Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe is the heart of the city. Don’t miss the Great East Window, and if you have the energy, climb the tower for views across the rooftops.
2. The City Walls. York has some of the best-preserved medieval walls in England. Walk the circuit (roughly two miles) for views of the Minster, the gatehouses (the “bars”) and the city below.
3. Clifford’s Tower. The remains of York Castle’s keep sit on a grassy mound with fine views over the city. It also has a dark and important place in York’s history.
4. St Mary’s Abbey and the Museum Gardens. The atmospheric ruins of a once-powerful abbey sit in beautiful gardens. It’s a lovely spot for a picnic.
5. Treasurer’s House. A handsome townhouse beside the Minster, with period rooms and a quiet garden that feels like a secret.
   Streets and atmosphere
6. The Shambles. Often called Europe’s best-preserved medieval street, this is York at its most photogenic. The overhanging timber-framed buildings lean so close that neighbours could almost shake hands across the gap.
7. Whip-Ma-Whop-Ma-Gate. It has the most entertaining name of any street in Britain, and it’s the shortest street in York too. Look for it on your wander.
8. Micklegate. Once the grand entrance for visiting royalty, this historic street is now full of independent pubs, bars and shops.
9. Walmgate Bar. The only city gate in England that still has its barbican, and a great place to spot medieval defences up close.
   Museums and history
10. JORVIK Viking Centre. Travel back to Viking-age York, with reconstructed streets built on archaeological discoveries made on the site. It’s a hit with families.
11. National Railway Museum. One of the world’s great railway collections, and free to enter. Locomotives, royal carriages and enormous halls make it great for all ages.
12. York Castle Museum. Walk down a full-size Victorian street and explore everyday life through the centuries, including the old prison cells.
13. Yorkshire Museum. Roman, Viking and medieval treasures in the Museum Gardens, with some stunning finds from across the region.
14. Merchant Adventurers’ Hall. One of the finest medieval guildhalls in Europe, still standing after more than 600 years.
    Fun, food and atmosphere
15. A Ghost Walk. York has a reputation as one of Europe’s most haunted cities. An evening ghost tour through the lantern-lit lanes is a classic, and good fun even for sceptics.
16. Afternoon tea at Bettys. A York institution, in the elegant tea rooms at St Helen’s Square. Book ahead or be prepared to queue.
17. York’s Chocolate Story. The city is the home of Terry’s and Rowntree’s. Learn about its sweet heritage, then taste your way through it.
18. A River Ouse Cruise. Take a break from walking and see the city from the water. Cruises run from the city centre.
19. Explore the Pubs. From cosy snugs to traditional ale houses, York has some of the best historic pubs in England. Pick one with an open fire in winter.
20. Wander Without a Plan. York’s real charm is in the details: hidden courtyards, tiny alleys (known as “snickelways”), independent bookshops and tucked-away cafés. Leave time to get lost.
    Planning your visit
    
    York is compact, so you can see the main sights on foot. Spring and early summer are lovely, December brings the Christmas markets, and autumn is atmospheric and quieter. Wear comfortable shoes, as the cobbles are charming but uneven.
    
    Want the full guide?
    This list is just a taster. Our e-book “The Top 20 Things to See & Do in York” goes further, with more background, insider tips and ideas to help you plan the perfect trip. Get your copy HERE. Available to buy or read on your phone, tablet or Kindle
    
    
    And while you’re planning, why not take a Fyne Editions travel journal or notebook with you? It’s the perfect place to capture your memories of York and everywhere else you visit. Browse our TRAVEL E BOOKS & NOTEBOOKS.